How to Get Your Journeyman Plumber License in North Carolina
Governing body, experience requirements, exam details, and step-by-step instructions for North Carolina. Last verified: February 2026.
Check the figures before you rely on them
Some fees, passing scores and hour requirements on this page are estimates we have not yet confirmed against NC Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. They change from cycle to cycle. Confirm anything you are budgeting or scheduling around directly with them before you apply.
Quick Facts
Hours Required
4 years apprenticeship
Exam
NC Journeyman Plumber Exam
Fee Range
$30–$75 app
Governing Body
NC Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors
Requirements
North Carolina issues statewide plumbing licenses through the NC Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. North Carolina issues a Journeyman Plumber certificate/license in addition to contractor-level licenses. Applicants typically need to complete an apprenticeship program (approximately 4 years) or document equivalent experience.
Steps to Apply
- 1
Complete a state-approved plumbing apprenticeship program (approximately 4 years) or document equivalent journey-level experience.
- 2
Submit a Journeyman Plumber license application to the NC Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors at ncplumbers.com.
- 3
Pay the required application and examination fees.
- 4
Pass the NC Journeyman Plumber examination.
- 5
Receive your NC Journeyman Plumber license and renew as required by the Board.
Exam Details
The NC Journeyman Plumber exam is based on the North Carolina State Building Code (Plumbing volume), which is derived from the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with North Carolina amendments.
Fees & Costs
Estimated total: $30–$75 app
NC plumbing board application and examination fees are set by the Board. Journeyman application fees are approximately $30–$75.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does North Carolina have a statewide journeyman plumber license?
Yes. North Carolina issues statewide plumbing licenses through the NC Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. Both journeyman and contractor-level licenses are available.
What plumbing code does North Carolina use?
North Carolina uses the NC State Building Code — Plumbing volume, which is based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with North Carolina amendments.
What is the difference between a Journeyman and Contractor plumber license in NC?
A Journeyman Plumber is qualified to perform plumbing work under the supervision of a licensed plumbing contractor. A Plumbing Contractor can independently operate a plumbing business, pull permits, and supervise journeymen.
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Also Available
Journeyman Plumber License in other states
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